Propecia, Donald Trump’s magic drug for hair growth: All you need to know

The fact that US President Donald Trump takes a prostate-related pill to maintain his hair has increased curiosity in the drug.

An official in US President Donald Trump’s Cabinet and at least one of his advisers gave paid speeches for an Iranian exile group that killed Americans before the 1979 Islamic Revolution (Source: Reuters)

The fact that US President Donald Trump takes a prostate-related pill to maintain his hair has increased curiosity in the drug. Apart from a drug for hair care, Trump also takes two other drugs — an antibiotic to control a common skin problem rosacea and statin which keeps his blood cholesterol and lipids elevated. The revelation was made by Trump’s physician Dr Harold N Bornstein during an interview with The New York Times.

Here, we present everything you need to know about Trump’s magic pill for hair care.

What is the drug — Propecia?

The drug Propecia is the market name for Finasteride. It is popularly used for treating the so-called male-pattern hair loss which leads to thinning of hair at the temples and crown. According to experts, male pattern hair loss happens because of a male hormone called “dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is created after an enzyme converts testosterone into it. It is believed that Propecia blocks the enzyme and lowers the DHT levels.

Propecia is believed to be effective in stopping hair loss, not in bringing back the lost hair.

Side-effects of Propecia

Regular use of Propecia may decrease the sex drive, lead to erectile problems and decreased volume of ejaculate. However, these side-effects are not common and, according to experts, only 2% of users suffer these side-effects.

For men above 55 years who take the overdose of Propecia, the drug also has the potential of causing an aggressive type of prostate cancer, according to NYT.

Some other side-effects of Propecia could be chills, cold sweat, confusion, dizziness, faintness or lightheadedness. Besides, the users may also feel bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, itchy skin, skin rash, unusual weight gain or loss.

Can women, children take Propecia?

The drug is not advised for women and children. According to drugs.com, use of Propecia by a woman can cause birth defects if she is exposed to the drug during pregnancy. A woman who is pregnant, or expects to become pregnant, should not come in direct contact with the drug.

Should you take Propecia?

A user must take proper medical advice before using Propecia. For only doctors can monitor side-effects and suggest remedies.